We in Leicester don't have any formal procedures as such (yet), but we
are currently merging three acute Trusts so all policies are being
re-drafted. Within the A&E dept it is not uncommon to get an officer
asking for info in a very vague way (one that springs to mind: we
suspect an individual of doing a burglary, he currently has a plaster
cast on his arm, could the A&E dept please give the force the names,
addresses etc. of all young men who have had a plaster cast fitted in
the last month or so). Needless to say he was laughed at and then
turned away. However when we think the police may have a valid claim ,
we ask that they bring a appropriate letter (or similar) stating why
they want the info, signed by themselves (with collar number) and an
appropriate superior (superintendent, inspector etc.) and we will then
assess if we are going to comply. Unfortunately like the NHS guidance
the whole procedure is vague and on a case by case basis.
When we get a communal approach I will be happy to publish it for other
peoples comments/use.
Su Clarke
Glenfield Hospital
Leicester
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